Beginner here... Where do I start exactly???

[AcidJizz]

I've recorded some stuff but its not a very good quality. I just record through a cheap microphone that came with my computer. I think I'm looking for a sound card that has multiple inputs (4 will probably do it). What would be the best card to get? I'm trying to make this kinda cheap, but I really want quality so I'll go the extra buck Also how should I record my guitar, put a microphone in front of the amp or hook the output from the amp to the input of the computer? I tried that at my friends house, but it was so loud it sounded real bad. It seems like i had no control over the volume either when doing it like that. Also what kind of microphone(s) or what? ahh any and all advice is appreciated. Sorry for being ignorant hehe =)

 

[DigitalDon]

Do a lot of reading here at homerecording.com . Lots of smart and talented people in here. Do a search on any topics you are interested in. This BBS tends to favor those who do their homework. The homework will not only smarten you up but also help you understand the answers you'll get.

In the meantime, forget the cheesy computer mic. It's only meant to talk over internet. Forget the "mic in" jack on your soundcard. It's the same quality as the cheesy mic. Use the "line in" jack. Don't waste $1 on a Radio Shack mic. Shure 58 is a great all-around mic (less than $100) and you'll keep it forever. Play around some with your soundcard before upgrading. Plug in your cassete player or CD player into the line-in jack and play around. You'll learn a lot. Download n-tracks audio editor at http://www.fasoft.com and go to the n-tracks forum on this BBS. The demo version will do all you'll need for now.

Look at the Maxi Studio ISIS at http://www.sound-music.com/guillemot.htm . About $200. Read a lot good about it.

Anyhow, do your homework and people here will help you any way they can.

DD

 

[Spider]

digi dons right , do a heap of research before you take that stroll into the store with a wad of cash in your hand.. I went to buy my first soundcard , i intended buying the layla , but not knowing a thing about recording i ended up with the isis card after finding out i actually needed a preamp to get the mic signal in there ...
But thats probly an extreme case of stupidity. But the isis may be a good place to start , it has a few more inputs than you wanted , eight in all and four outs .. Has a seperate breakout box for the iputs and outputs and from what ive heard from it its great for your first project home studio, in fact some pro studios are using it for things like vocals , though i would opt for something a little more extravagant if i had the cash. Check it out at http://www.guillemot.com .. Just remember most cards require u to have some form of signal preamplification , thus a small mixer or a seperate pre amp. I dont personally use seperate preamps but ive heard a few and i must say they did add the warmth that my console pres are lacking. The digi001 package i hear is quite good , the breakout box has two xlr inputs and preamps , so basically (havent used it) this would be another card to look at.. well good luck with the hunt and hope u make a wise decision...
spider



DOH!!!! I should've payed more attention to your post don , well thats just incase the first link doesnt work ... well worth a look though!!

 

[Even]

I would stear you towards a sound card/interface like the Echo Darla. Its got the sporty 24bit deal and a seperate breakout box with a couple of ins and 8 outs. Odds are if you are a solo recording dude (not several guys) you only need a couple inputs. And good news it is only $300.
Play with programs a bit and by all means don't be afrad to mess it up. Read ask and try.